Wrath of the Triple Goddess

In ancient Greek thought, achieving balance is the highest ideal, as exemplified in the optimal functioning of the natural world. The ancient Greeks carried this idea into their mythology: No matter how large the conflicts that erupt among them, the immortals ultimately understand that they need each other and must work together harmoniously. They will not always agree, but they must eventually reconcile, honor each other’s excellence, and work together to achieve outcomes that benefit the whole. Rick Riordan carries this concept of balance into his framing of relationships within any given community, whatever its size and makeup. No matter how exceptional one’s abilities, those abilities will not always be what is needed. Thus, any social group, from the smallest friend group unit (Grover, Annabeth, Percy) to the largest (the demigods, their families, and the gods) must supplement and complement each other.

This dynamic permeates and shapes the narrative; Percy’s quest is collaborative from the start but grows to encompass more and more allies as the story progresses. Initially, Percy enlists only Grover and Annabeth, bringing them to the mansion with him and having them help him take the animals for their walks. The importance of his friends’ presence is clear even before disaster strikes: During their first challenging walk with